I love mine
Ive not driven the auto/tip GTT but have been a passenger in one. It seemed very good from the passenger seat, and from what ive heard its quite a good box if youre into auto cars and obviously has the bonus of the tiptronic paddle shift for more control. The manuals do seem to be alot harder to find though, and as such carry a premium above that of the auto/tip cars.
The only time ive ever felt the HICAS working on mine was on the track, and to be honest, although a little odd at first, i really quite liked it....but then im not a particularly proficient track driver, where as im sure someone who is, was find it more of a hinderance. Locking kits are available for the HICAS though so thats always an option.